Born: 1992 (Mesa, Arizona)
Biography:
Julie Beth Ertz (née Johnston; born April 6, 1992) is an accomplished American soccer player who has made significant contributions to both club and country. She currently plays for Angel City FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and represents the United States women’s national soccer team. Ertz’s journey towards becoming a soccer star began in Mesa, Arizona, where she was born to Kristi and David Johnston. She grew up alongside her sister Melanie Johnston, and together they developed a passion for the game.
Ertz’s soccer journey kicked off in her local AYSO region, where she was introduced to the sport. She soon joined Sereno Soccer Club in Phoenix, playing for the 1992 side. Joining Sereno proved to be a pivotal decision for Ertz, as she reflected later, stating that it was the best decision she had ever made. Sereno Soccer Club had a reputation for producing talented players, many of whom went on to play in college, professionally, and even for national teams. Ertz played with the club from 2004 to 2010, representing the U13 through U19 teams. During her time there, she won the state title an impressive nine times and served as team captain.
Ertz attended Dobson High School in Mesa from 2006 to 2010, where she chose to prioritize playing for Sereno over joining the school’s soccer team. Instead, she volunteered as a student athletic trainer for all four years. Alongside her dedication to soccer, Ertz was also a member of the National Honor Society, highlighting her commitment to academic excellence.
Ertz’s soccer talents further blossomed when she joined Santa Clara University after high school. She pursued a communications major while playing as a midfielder for the Broncos women’s soccer team. In her freshman year in 2010, Ertz featured in 20 games, starting in 16 of them and accumulating an impressive 1,519 minutes of playing time. This solid start to her college career set the stage for her future success.
In 2013, Ertz made her debut for the United States women’s national soccer team in an international friendly against Scotland. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey at the international level. Over the years, Ertz has earned more than 100 caps for the national team, establishing herself as a key player and a strong presence on the field.
Ertz’s contributions to the United States women’s national team did not go unnoticed. She played a pivotal role in helping the team secure victories at both the 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cups. At the age of 23, she became the second-youngest member of the 2015 World Cup-winning team, with only Morgan Brian being younger. Ertz’s outstanding performances throughout the tournament, where she played every minute of all seven games, earned her a place in the FIFA Women’s World Cup All-Star Team.
In 2017, Ertz shifted to the center midfield position for both her club and the national team, showcasing her versatility and adaptability. Her exceptional skills and dedication led to her being named the U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year in the same year. She continued to impress and was nominated for the prestigious award again in 2018. Ertz’s remarkable contributions were duly recognized when she clinched the U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year title in 2019.
Beyond her individual accomplishments, Ertz’s influence extends to inspiring future generations of female athletes. She serves as a role model, breaking down barriers and proving that women have a significant place in the world of soccer. Throughout her career, she has faced challenges and overcome them with determination, resilience, and a relentless work ethic.
Julie Ertz’s impact on women’s history cannot be understated. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, both on and off the field, continues to serve as an inspiration to aspiring female athletes worldwide. As she continues to make strides in her career, Ertz remains a force to be reckoned with, leaving an indelible mark on the world of women’s soccer.
Awards:
– U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year: 2017, 2019